November 2014

Vol. 12 No. 11

Editors

Monthly

From the Chairman

“We should not teach children the sciences but give them a taste for them.” -Jean Jacques Rosseau

A b a s i c d i s t i n c t i o n between traditional and modern societies is the development and use of science-based technology w h i c h h e l p s m o d e r n i z a t i o n o f agr icu l ture and the development of industries. In a traditional society, product ion i s based largely on empirical processes, experience, and trial and error, rather than on science; in a modern society, it is basically rooted in science. The

INSIDE

Dr. Khalil Ahmed IbupotoChairmanPakistan Science Foundation

Continued on page 2

Dr. Naushaba NadeemMs. Zaiban Farooq

th44 Meeting of PSF Board of Trustees held at PSF

th44 Meeting of PSF Board of Trustees was held on 18.11.2014 at PSF. Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF presided over

the meeting. He presented a n d s h a r e d a b r i e f performance report of the Research and Science Promotion activities and

achievements of PSF. The initiatives taken by PSF were appreciated by all of the members of the Board. They

Chairman, PSF presiding over the 44th Meeting of PSF BOT

Z.A. Hashmi Gold Medal Awarded toHighly Productive PIs of PSF Research Funded Projects

PSF in 2006 instituted “Dr. Z. A. Hashmi R&D Gold Medal” in the recognition of

its Founder Chairman, Dr. Z.A. Hashmi (Late), to be awarded each year on

competition basis to the Principal Investigators of PSF funded research projects conducted during previous 10 years. Dr. Z.A. Hashmi R&D Gold Medals for the years 2011 and 2012 were awarded to Prof. Dr. Anwar-ul-Hassan Gilani, Director of Drug Discovery and Natural Products Research Division, Agha Khan University, Karachi and Prof. Dr. Asghari Maqsood, Department of Physics, Air University, Islamabad for PSF funded projects implemented during

Continued on page 2

Dr. Anwar-ul-Hasan Gilani receiving Z.A. Hashmi Award from Federal Minister for S&T Mr. Zahid Hamid

2 4 9 11

PSF NEWSLETTER 2

From the Chairman

close interlocking and interdependence between science and technology is a characteris t ic of the contemporary world. For the process of development and transformation; the role of science is of the utmost importance.Science education must become an integral part of school education; and ultimately some study of science should become a part of all courses in the humanities and social sciences at the university stage, even as the teaching of science can be enriched by the inclusion of some elements of the humanities and social sciences.The quality of science teaching has also to be raised considerably so as to a c h i e v e i t s p r o p e r objectives and purposes as t o p r o m o t e d e e p understanding of basic principles, to develop pro-blem-solving, analytical skills and the ability to apply them to the problems of the material environment and social living, and also to promote the spirit of inquiry and experimenta-tion. PSF, in collaboration with UNESCO celebrated World Science Day for Peace and Development having the theme promoting Quality Science Education, which i s a k e y f a c t o r f o r sustainability of our future. Quality Science Education is essential for sustainable development and capacity building of our young generation. It is the need of hour to learn the ways to cope with environmental, societal and economic problems. This all will be possible, if we allow influential changes in our education system.

Quote of the MonthQuote of the Month

Scientists have become the bearers of the torch of discovery in our quest for knowledge.

-Stephen Hawking

July 2001-June 2011 and July 2 0 0 2 t o J u n e 2 0 1 2 respectively. After a critical examination of the merit by v a r i o u s c o m m i t t e e s d e p e n d i n g u p o n t h e

m a x i m u m o u t p u t , quant i f i ab le sc ien t i f i c contribution and productivity of PSF supported projects they were awarded Dr. Z. A. H a s h m i G o l d M e d a l alongwith Certificate of

Recognition and Cash award of Rs.100,000/- in a graceful ceremony on the occasion of “World Science Day for Peace and Development on Nov, 10 at PSF. Dr. Gilani regarding PSF projects conducted 03 projects and g o t 2 5 I n t e r n a t i o n a l publications, produced 3 MPhil and 6 PhD students. W h i l e , D r . A s g h a r i conducted 2 projects and got 19 International and 01 Nat iona l publ ica t ions , produced 6 Mphil students. Both the PI's contributed significantly in national e c o n o m y a n d industrialization.

lauded the efforts of PSF for creating science culture in the society by providing research fellowships and grants and t h r o u g h i t s s c i e n c e

popularization programmes. This meeting was arranged specifically to discuss the issues related to budget as PSF is facing paucity of funds for its statutory functions. All

the members unanimously agreed upon the fact that budget for PSF's statutory functions should be increased and serious efforts should be made for the purpose.

From page 1

From page 1

“Quality Science Education, Securing a Sustainable Future for All”The theme of World Science Day for Peace and

Development 2014 highlighted at PSF

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) d u r i n g t h e G e n e r a l

stConference at its 31 session

( 2 0 0 1 ) p r o c l a i m e d November 10 each year as “World Science Day for Peace and Development (WSDPD)”. Initially the

proposal was floated by Eminent Pakistani Scientist Dr. Ishfaq Ahmad, N.I., H.I., S.I. Since 2002, PSF in collaboration with other

Dr. Asghari Maqsood, receiving Z.A. Hashmi Award from Federal Minister for S&T Mr. Zahid Hamid

(L to R) Dr. H.U. Khan, CSO , PSF, Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF, Federal Minister for S&T Mr. Zahid Hamid. Ms. Beverly Jones, UNESCO and Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmed VC, AAUR during the inaugural session of WSDPD-2014

3 PSF NEWSLETTER

organizations like UNESCO, Intel, and Federal Directorate of Education is organizing various activities for students a n d s c i e n t i s t s t o commemorate the day like Convention of Scientists, S c i e n c e C a r a v a n E x h i b i t i o n s , P a n e l Discussions on TV and Prize Distribution to the winners of PSF Annual Inter Board Science Essay and Poster Competitions etc. The theme selected by UNESCO for this year was “Quality Science Education: Securing a sustainable future for all”In this connection, World Science Day for Peace & Development (WSDPD) was c e l e b r a t e d o n 1 0 t h November, 2014 in Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) like it happens in the world on November 10 every year. PSF arranged immaculate festivities at this occasion. Federal Minister for Science & Technology Mr. Zahid Hamid, Ms. Beverly Jones, Representative UNESCO, Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmed, Vice Chancellor Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi, and renowned scientist Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed participated in the event along-with

several other dignitaries.

Federal Minister for Science & Technology, while talking to the audience designated this day very special and cons ide red sc ience & technology pivotal for international peace and development. He added that the present government under the dynamic leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif is well aware of the importance of scientific education in the country and this is the reason that present government has given special emphasis over S&T education in Vision 2025 and initiating projects worth billions of rupees which would prove instrumental for our national development. The federal minister also lauded the efforts of the Chairman, PSF Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto for the

s p e c i a l a r r a n g e m e n t s tocelebrations of WSDPD. He said, “Today's event the “World Science Day for Peace and Development” is very right step to convey a positive message from the scientists to the masses that the science has played a pivotal role in achieving peace and progress in the world.

The Chairman, PSF Dr. Khali l Ahmed Ibupoto expressed that the whole w o r l d i s c e l e b r a t i n g November 10 as WSDPD. Pakistanis' gathering at this o c c a s i o n i s n o t o n l y encouraging; instead it's a guarantee to our prosperous future. This years' theme “Quality Science Education: for our bright future” also reflects that the today's issues can only be resolved through effective utilization of scientific knowledge. He

further said, we have to develop that understanding, between the organizations for taking r ight s teps for developing a scientific culture among the young minds. He also congratulated the winner students and scientists for receiving medals on their fabulous performance.

M s . B e v e r l y J o n e s , Representative, UNESCO also shared UNESCO's objective to inculcate the need and importance of science in every human being. We are further focusing to bring men and women at par to make women a precious asset of today's world. UNESCO has the vision of science education as promoting the economic, s o c i a l a n d c u l t u r a l development of nations and fostering the prospects for peace and a sustainable

Federal Minister for S&T Mr. Zahid Hamid along with Chairman, PSF Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto and other guests visiting the projects and posters made by students

PSF NEWSLETTER 4

future, she said.

Dr. Rai Niaz Ahmed, Vice Chancellor PMAS Arid Agricul ture Universi ty Rawalpindi highlighted the

agricultural potential of the country and said that Scientific & Technical endeavors are essential components of a country's development efforts which is primarily governed by the public awareness of the need t o e x p a n d s c i e n t i f i c knowledge and acquire technical skills. Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed, N.I., H.I., S.I. ,a renowned scientists and Founder of World Science Day threw light over

h i s t o r y o f W S D P D celebrations and his efforts for declaration of this day. He applauded the continued

interest of PSF and the way they have sustained their interest in this day.On the occasion, students from different schools of Islamabad also displayed their projects. Federal Minister and Chairman, PSF along with distinguished guests also visited their projects and appreciated their e f f o r t s . F u r t h e r m o r e , students also made colorful posters to highlight the importance of the day.

Special Talk on “Teaching Farmers the Science of Sustainable Irrigation”on the occasion of WSDPD-2014

Dr. Hassan Abbas, UNESCO Chair on Water at COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Wah Campus g a v e p r e s e n t a t i o n o n Teaching Farmers the Science of Sustainable Irrigation at occasion of WSDPD on November 10. During his talk he said that agriculture is still the world's most widespread occupation. It accounts for 70% of humanity's water c o n s u m p t i o n . C u r r e n t d i l e m m a i n w a t e r management is that we need still more water in irrigation sector to feed the increasing population on the planet whereas water resources around the world have already been exploited to

their limits. The question arises how we can produce more food without diverting m o r e w a t e r i n t o t h e agriculture sector, let alone r e v e r s e t h e o n g o i n g environmental impacts due to over exploitation of water resources?Based on this concept, he told

that scientists at COMSATS Wah Campus devised an irrigation methodology and developed an irrigation system which eliminates d e e p d r a i n a g e a n d significantly cuts down evaporation. A prototype of the system, nicknamed ZiZAK, was installed in an

open field. ZiZAK has s u r p a s s e d t h e w a t e r productivity of the best irrigation systems in vogue by about three folds, and holds a huge promise for minimizing the requirements of water in the agriculture sector. This talk was highly appreciated by the audience.

rdWinners of PSF 23 Inter Board Essay &Poster Competitions awarded with medals

Students from all over the country, Khairpur, Karachi, Bahawalpur, RajanPur, H y d e r a b a d , S u k k u r , Mansehra and Gujranwala were awarded medals, cash prizes and certificates in a graceful ceremony on the

occasion of WSDPD on November 10. Organizing Science Essay & Poster Competitions is a regular and very successful activity of the Foundation. PSF in col labora t ion wi th a l l Boards of Intermediate and

S e c o n d a r y E d u c a t i o n (BISE) of the country

rdorganized 23 Competition of the series in which thousands of students have participated from all over the country. In the first p h a s e t h e B o a r d s o f

Dr. Hasan Abbas, UNESCO Chair on Water at COMSATS delivering his talk

5 PSF NEWSLETTER

Intermediate & Secondary Education arrange Science E s s a y a n d P o s t e r Competition within their jurisdiction on the theme approved by PSF and

submitted the results of the Intra Board level to the Foundation. After receipt of the results from all Boards, PSF organized “Inter Board Contest” (the final) at PSF

Head Office, Islamabad and a n n o u n c e d b e s t t h r e e position in each category. Students with extraordinary

rdperformances in 23 Annual Essay competition on the

theme “Water and Me” in Urdu, English and Sindi l a n g u a g e a n d P o s t e r competition on the theme “Living with Solar Energy” were awarded.

“From Effectiveness to Greatness” catches attention of the scientistsPSF arranges series of lectures as one of its mandatory functions, where eminent scientists and e d u c a t i o n i s t s e x p r e s s themselves for the benefit of t h e m i x e d a u d i e n c e compr i s ing sc ien t i s t s , scholars, s tudents and general public. Dr. Awais e Siraj, Managing Director, Genzee Solution Pvt. Ltd, which is a capacity building and management consulting company based on Stephen Covey's, the 8th Habit delivered a lecture titled “From Effectiveness to G r e t a n e s s ” o n 2 0 t h

N o v e m b e r a t P S F Auditorium. The lecture was meant for motivating PSF Officers towards conductive working conditions for better output of their capabilities. During the lecture, Dr. Siraj gave valuable tips and shared some experiences about the ways to travel ahead towards sustainability and greatness. H e e m p h a s i z e d t h a t everybody should have firm believe on his self and his capabilities. Mr. Haider Zaman Khattak, Secretary, PSF, Dr. H.U. Khan, CSO, PSF and Mr. Sahib Raza Husnain Kharal, Secretary,

PCSIR were also present on the occasion. In the lecture, large number of students and teachers f rom Chanab College, Islamabad and PSF o ff i c e r s / o f f i c i a l s a l so participated. Dr. H. U. Khan, CSO, PSF also gave valuable talk on mot ivat ion which was appreciated by students and t e a c h e r s . D u r i n g h i s l e c t u r e , h e s a i d t h a t students at their schools & colleges must learn science

contents and scientific skills for the capacity building and their study should be research based w h i c h c a n m a k e contribution towards S&T progress in our country. At the end, Mr. Sahib Raza Husnain Kharal, Secretary, PCSIR presented shield to Dr. Awais e Siraj and he also handed over set of Urdu Science Encyclopedia to the Principal of Chanab College, Islamabad.

Federal Minister for S&T Mr. Zahid Hamid and Chairman PSF Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto distributing certificates and medals among winners of 23rd Anuual Competitions

Dr. Awais-e-Siraj M.D. Genzee Solution interacting with the audience during his lecture

Dr. Awais-e-Siraj M.D. Genzee Solution receiving Shield from Mr. Sahib Raza Husnain Kharal, Secretary PCSIR, Secretary PSF Mr. Haider Zaman Khattak and PSF Senior

Scientific officer are also present Dr. H.U. Khan, CSO, PSF delivering his speech

PSF NEWSLETTER 6

PSF collaborated for Intel Provincial Science Fairs at Islamabad and PeshawarIntel Education Initiative, Pakistan in collaboration with PSF organizes Intel Science Fairs (ISF) at Provincial, National and International level. This year Intel organized Provincial Science Fair Punjab at Lahore, Quetta, Islamabad and Peshawar. In Lahore and Quetta fairs were held in October, 2014. In this series, Provincial Fair at Islamabad

thwas held on 11-13 Nov, 2 0 1 4 a t P a k T u r k International School and College. In this fair students

from all over Capital and Gigit Baltistan participated along with their projects and their projects were judged by experts/subject specialists on

th12 October, 2014. Some officers from PSF, PASTIC and PMNH also performed the duty of Judges. The closing ceremony was held

thon 13 Oct, 2014 at the same venue. Dr. Naushaba Atta, PSO attended the ceremony. Mian I jaz , Addi t ional Secretary, MoST awarded medals and certificates to the winners.

In Peshawar, Intel Provincial Science Fair was held at AUPS&C (Boys) Peshawar

th thfrom 24 to 26 November, 2014. Science Caravan KPK Unit and PASTIC officials cooperated full time in the arrangements of Provincial Science Fairs and provision o f j u d g e s f o r t h e competitions with the Intel

thteam. On 25 November, 2014 the panels of judges evaluated the projects. The Closing ceremony was held

thon 26 , November, 2014 at

the same venue and Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Principal of Fazaiya College Resal Pur was the Chief Guest. Ms. Khadija Bashir, Project Manager, Intel® Education Initiative in her speech appreciated the role of Pakistan Science Foundation in the field of Science popularization and paid thanks to Science Caravan staff and officials to full cooperate in this event. Awards were also distributed among the winners.

Chairman PSF Inaugurated 27th Annual Science Innovation Exhibitionat NMST, Lahore

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman, PSF inaugurated 27 th Annual Science Exhibition and Competitions at National Museum of Science and Te c h n o l o g y ( N M S T ) , Lahore on 26th Nov, 2014. NMST is an Educational Organization working under S c h o o l E d u c a t i o n Department, Government of Punjab, Lahore. The purpose of this Exhibition is to promote scientific aptitude among students and to enhance scientific culture at s e c o n d a r y l e v e l . T h e

students from all over the Punjab were participating in this exhibition with their Innovat ive Models on scientific themes. At this

occas ion the Direc tor NMST, Ms Najma Liaqat briefed the Chairman about the activities organized by Museum and the event

a r ranged w.e . f . 26-28 November. She told that these competitions are a r r a n g e d a n n u a l l y t o p romote co -cu r r i cu la r

Dr. Naushaba Att, PSO, PSF receiving appreciation award from Mr.Mian Ijaz Additional Secretary MoST during closing ceremony of Intel Science Fair at Islamabad

A group photo of Intel Science Fair winners alongwith PSF Science Caravan KPK Unit and Intel Team at Peshawar

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto , Chairman, PSF inaugurating and visiting science exhibition at NMST, Lahore

7 PSF NEWSLETTER

activities in the field of science, these competitions consist of Science Quiz, Essays on scientific themes and Innovative Models on scientific themes. Chairman PSF visited the Exhibition

with Director NMST. Dr. Naushaba Nadeem PSO, PSF, Ms. Saima Riaz and Ms. Fatima from NMST also accompanied them. Dr. Khalil asked some questions about the Models and

appreciated the efforts of young scientists and their teachers. Director NMST. Ms Najma Liaqat with her team also invited Dr. Khalil to visit the different galleries of the Museum and briefed

about the exhibits. Chairman PSF appreciated the NMST team specially for designing the coal and salt mines, and also offered cooperation for collaboration to arrange different activities.

PSF & CLC Plan to collaborate for Science promotion.Chairman PSF, Dr. Khalil Ahmed & Director Children Library Complex, Dr. Amna Imam decided to collaborate in various activities at grassroots level to develop scientific attitude among children and community. Dr. Amna, Director CLC met Chairman PSF at his office and latter Prof. Khalil Ahmad Ibupoto also visited

thCLC at Lahore on 26 November to discuss the windows for cooperation. The draft for MoU already under process was discussed and it was also mutually agreed that activities may be c o n t i n u e d d u r i n g

finalization of MoU as both o r g a n i z a t i o n s a r e Government organizations.

It was decided to arrange popular science lectures during the activities arranged

by CLC. It was also decided arrange Planetarium shows d u r i n g a c t i v i t i e s a n d educational videos with both organizations may also be shared. Director CLC also desired to plan some activity jointly about the ethical aspect of science to address cruelty in the society. Both organizations mutually agreed to collaborate on Earth Day & Environment Day activities and Teachers' Training in the field of IBSE. Chairman PSF also visited all sections of CLC, and appreciated the services provided by CLC for welfare of community.

Candidates Interviewed for Various Posts underAghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan Package

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF chaired a meeting of P S F D e p a r t m e n t a l S e l e c t i o n Committee on 14.11.2014 at Quetta. Mr. Haider Zaman Khattak, Secretary, PSF/Member and Ms. Madiha

R a f i q u e , A s s i s t a n t D i r e c t o r (G&IT) /Member /Sec re t a ry t o Interview Committee were also present. The Committee selected four candidates against the vacant posts of S c i e n c e A s s i s t a n t ( B S - 1 4 ) ,

Planetarium Assistant (BS-11) and Caravan Attendant (BS-1) for employment in PSF Science Caravan Unit at Jaffarabad, Balochistan and NSLP-PSF under Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan Package.

PSF Science Caravans celebrated World Science DayScience Caravan units highlighted World Science Day in different areas of the country.SindhSukkur unit organized speech competitions on World Science Day “Quality Science Education” on dated 12.11.2014. Above 150 students and teachers of 03 schools participated in this

program. In the end prizes were distributed among winner students and Urdu Science Encyclopedia, DVD, posters, brochures and book sets were presented to Muhammad Ismail Khoso Principal Govt. (B) HS School Jaffarabad Muhalla and Muneer Ahmed Khoso, Head Master Govt. (B) Hameedia High School

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed, Chairman PSF is being briefed at CLC, Lahore

Glimpse of Walk arranged by Tandojam Unit on the occasion of World Science Day

PSF NEWSLETTER 8

J a c o b a b a d . T h e y appreciated this activity by PSF in rural areas.Science Caravan Tando Jam Unit also celebrated World Science Day at Govt. Boys High School Kunri District Umerko t du r ing the i r Science Exhibition and organized science promotion activities, in which large number of students and teachers participated.PunjabScience Caravan (Punjab Unit) also marked the World Science Day (WSD) by organizing a special event on November 11, 2014 at Govt. Pilot High School, Multan and elaborating this year's theme as declared by UNESCO “World Science D a y f o r P e a c e a n d Development – Towards

Quality Science education”. In which 415 students and teachers participated.BalochistanScience Caravan Balochistan Unit Quetta arranged Science awareness programme on “World Science Day for Peace and Development” on

th10 November 2014, at Iqra Res iden t i a l Schoo l & C o l l e g e , Q u e t t a . M r. Maqbool Ahmad (Assistant Director) has highlighted the importance, history and purpose of celebrating World Science Day and that how we can use the knowledge and inventions of Science for Peace and Development of ou r coun t ry. He a l so delivered a detailed lecture o n “ Q u a l i t y S c i e n c e Education” 125 students and teachers participated in

world science day. At the end M r. M a q b o o l A h m a d p r e s e n t e d S c i e n t i f i c l i t e r a t u r e i . e . U r d u Encyclopedia, scientific booklets on different topics, Disaster master kit with DVD and Scientific posters to the V i c e P r i n c i p a l I q r a Res iden t i a l Schoo l & College Quetta. The Vice Pr incipal and Science teachers appreciated the activity.Science Caravan Jaffarabad Unit organized a lecture to highlight the importance of the theme for World Science Day on 14.11.2014 at Govt. Middle School, Hub. Mr. Abdul Khal ique , Uni t Incharge delivered the

lecture. 185 teachers and students attended the lecture. KPKScience Caravan KPK Unit arranged Walk and Science Exhibition on the occasion. To highlight the importance of the day a walk for Science was arranged on the main gate of School to Pajjagi road Peshawar. In this walk the students of Govt. High School Barbar Opazai participated. In this walk 429 students and 12 teachers took part. The exhibition at GHS- Barbar Opazai was attended by a large number of students and teachers. The Head Master and teachers of the schools highly appreciated this event.

The Theme of World Science Day Highlighted by Jaffarabad UnitView of Science Exhibition arranged by Punjab Unit on the occasion of

World Science Day

Walk arranged by KPK Unit to highlight the importance of World Science DayA Special Lecture arranged by Quetta Unit on the occasion of World Science Day

9 PSF NEWSLETTER

Breif of Science Caravan exhibitionsFederalScience Caravan Federal Unit arranged Planetarium Show at Institute of Space Technology, Islamabad on 6-8 Nov, 2014 on the occasion of World Space week. In which more than 1800 students from 15 schools, colleges and universities participated.PunjabScience Caravan Exhibition was arranged at Government Pilot High School and Government Girls High School No. 1 Multan w.e.f. 10-20 Nov, 2014, in which 4300 students alongwith 120 t e a c h e r s p a r t i c i p a t e d .

Planetarium show was arranged at Children Library Complex, Lahore on 20-22 Nov, 2014. More than 50 teachers and 1700 students visited this Show. Another Science Exhibition was arranged in Government Girls Higher Secondary School Bhowana. More than 50 teachers and 11,00 s t u d e n t s v i s i t e d t h i s exhibition. Planetarium Show was arranged in NMST Lahore w.e.f. 26-28 Nov, 2014. More Than 60 teachers and 29, 00 students visited this Show.KPKScience Caravan Exhibitions

were held at New Islamic Cadet School & College, G H S - B a r b a r O P a z i Peshawar and GHS- Khair A b a d M a r d a n f r o m 06.11.2014 to 08.11.2014 a n d 1 0 . 1 1 . 2 0 1 4 t o 13.11.2014 and 17.11.2014 to 28.11.2014 respectively. During these exhibitions some 3405 students and 111 t e a c h e r s 2 7 s c h o o l s participated and gadgets were handed over 07 schools.SindhScience Caravan Tando Jam arranged science exhibition at Govt Boys/Girls Higher Secondary School Kunri District Umerkot w.e.f. 10-

11-2014 to 25-11-2014. About 3698 students, 87 Teachers and 18 schools visited the science caravan exhibition.Science Caravan Sukkur Unit arranged Science Caravan exhibition at Govt. (Boys) Hameedia High School Jacobabad and Govt. ( G i r l s ) H i g h S c h o o l Jacobabad for the schools of taluka / District Jacobabad from 6-26 Nov, 2014. Mr. Muneer Ahmed Khoso, Head Master Govt. (B) Hameedia High School inaugurated the science exhibition. Above 3850 students, teachers and other staff of 22 schools v i s i t e d t h e s c i e n c e exhibition.BalochistanScience Caravan Jaffarbad Unit arranged Science Caravan exhibition at Govt. middle School Akram Colony Hub 6-23 Nov, 2014. In which, 6470 students, teachers and other staff of 14 schools participated. D.D.O Hub and Incharge of the Unit M r. . A b d u l K h a l i q u e d i s t r i b u t e d U N E S C O Disaster Master Kits and Urdu Science Encyclopedia to the Principals of the

Important Meetings/Events attended;Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman, PSF attended following meetings/event during the month of November, 2014;

st?Attended Closing Ceremony of 1 International Conference on Neuro Rehabilitation

at Isra University, Islamabad on Nov, 02.?Attended meeting of the organizing committee in connection with “Holding of

COMSTECH General Assembly Summit” at MoST on Nov, 05.?Meeting with Dr. Amna Imam, Project Director, Children Library Complex, Lahore

on Nov, 12.?Meeting on establishment of CIIT Technology Park at Islamabad at CIIT, Islamabad

on Nov, 21.?Attended Meeting at NARC on Nov, 24.?Presentation by Dr. Raja Razi, Additional Director, PASTIC in PSF Committee

Room regarding “ Mutual Cooperation between PSF & NRF, Korea” Nov, 28.

Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH)Editor: Dr. Saleem Ahmad, Director, PSD

PMNH Organizes 3 Days Training Workshop onGemology and Computer Aided Jewelry

Pakistan Museum of Natural History organized a 3 days' Training Workshop on Gemology and Computer Aided Jewelry at PMNH in collaboration with Jewellers Association, Rawalpindi,

Pakistan Gems & Jewelry Development Company (PGJDC) and University of Haripur, Hazara (UoH) w.e.f. 17-19 Nov, 2014. PMNH has been jointly o r g a n i z i n g t r a i n i n g

workshops on gemstones in collaboration with the private sector since the last two years f o r h i g h l i g h t i n g t h e importance of precious stones commonly found in our country and enhancing

awareness of common people about the commercial potential of our gemstones. Inaugural Ceremony of 3 Days Training Workshop was

thheld on 17 Nov at Pakistan Museum of Natural History

PSF NEWSLETTER 10

(PMNH), Garden Avenue, Shakarparian, Islamabad. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman, Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) also graced the occasion as a chief guest. He highlighted the role of PSF and said that PSF is the premier organization, working for the promotion of scientific and technological research by providing financial and technical support on individual and institutional level. Moreover, he appreciated the joint effor ts of PMNH and participating organizations a n d h o p e t h a t t h i s coordination will continue in future and PSF will continue to supervise all activities and collaborations for research a n d e d u c a t i o n . D r . Muhammad Khan Leghari, Director General, PMNH elaborate the functions and efforts of PMNH for research on flora & Fauna, Rocks, Fossils and Minerals and their display for purpose of education as a part of PMNH

mandate. He said that this 3 Days training workshop organized jointly with private sector, will enrich the minds of our youth and they could get advantages from the experience of industry professionals. Moreover, he sa id tha t PMNH wi l l continue these efforts in the form educational activities, Seminars, Symposiums, Training Workshops to e x p l o r e m o r e v i t a l opportunities with private sector for education and research.Mr. Syed Ilyas Ali Shah, Resource Person from Pakistan Gems & Jewelry Development Company (PGJDC), Khyber Pakhtoon Khawa, said “Pakistan has undoubtedly been blessed w i t h t r e m e n d o u s opportunities. Our human resources is hard working, w i l l i n g t o v i r t u a l l y enterprising. Facilitating this great pool of potential enterprising community will t r i g g e r e c o n o m i c

development in the country. This workshop will promote the culture of collaboration between public and private sectors”. Dr. Zahoor Ahmed, D i r e c t o r , O f f i c e o f Renovation, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) from the University of Haripur, in his introductory remarks about the workshop, stress upon the joint venture among the public and private sector for the promotion of science & education which could leads the country towards the progressive path. He said that office of Renovation, Innovation and searching the possibilities for the betterment of research and education along with the private sector to make educational output more fruitful and effective in the development of the country. Dr. Nayyer Iqbal, Director, Earth Sciences Division, thanked the guest of honour, chief guest, delegates from

p u b l i c a n d p r i v a t e o r g a n i z a t i o n s a n d participants of the workshop. Mr. Ozair Junaid, from J e w e l l e r s A s s o c i a t i o n R a w a l p i n d i i m p a r t e d training on jewelry designing with the help of “Matrix Software” on first day of the workshop. Large number of Students from the University of Haripur and Gems & J e w e l l a r y i n d u s t r y professionals received the training. On the second day Mr. Syed Ilyas Ali Shah, Resource Person from Pakistan Gems & Jewelry Development Company (PGJDC) illustrated the significance of the gemstone potential of Pakistan by showing the documentaries of different media channels about the gemstones sector condition. He also shared the informat ion about the PGJDC services to this sector. Later on he delivered the lecture about the diamond grading and pricing. He described the different methods to evaluate the diamond quality. Syed Ilyas Ali Shah, resource p e r s o n f r o m P G J D C , completed his lecture about “Diamond Grading and Pricing”. He demonstrated d i f f e r e n t m e t h o d s o f d i a m o n d p r i c i n g a n d synthetic Diamond creation

(Left to Right) Dr. M.K.Leghari, D.G, PMNH, Syed Ilyas Ali Shah, PGJDC, Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF, Dr. Zahoor Ahmed, Director, ORIC, UoH, and Dr. Nayyer Iqbal,

Director, ESD, PMNH during the inaugural session of 3 Days training workshop.

ndSyed Ilyas Ali Shah delivering Lecture about Diamond Grading and Pricing on the 2 day of the training workshop.

Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF, presenting shields to (Left to Right) Mr. Abdul Qudoos, President, Jewellers Association, Rawalpindi; Mr. Fayyaz Qureshi, Executive Member, RCCI; Dr. Zahoor Ahmed, Director ORIC, UOH; Mr. Uzair Junaid, Resource Person

from Jewellers Association, Rawalpindi; Mr. Syed Ilyas Ali Shah, PGJDC, Peshawar, and Mr. Sheikh M. Akbar.

11 PSF NEWSLETTER

processes by different people through the passage of time. A practical was also included in the session. He briefed the participants about the mode of formation, occurrence and n a t u r e o f g e m s t o n e s

according to their origin in the Gemstone Gallery of PMNH. In the group discussion participating members from gemstones s e c t o r s , J e w e l e r s Association, RCCI, officials

from University of Haripur and Industry professional emphasized the promotion of collaboration between public and private sectors not only for the progress of the country but also for the

awareness of the people.At the end of the workshop a closing ceremony was held for the distribution of certificates and shields among the participants and resource persons from the

Dr. Nayyer Iqbal Retires as Director, ESD, PMNHA farewell party has held in PMNH on 27th November to bid farewell to two retiring officers of PMNH, namely Dr. Nayyer Iqbal, Director (BS-20), Earth Sciences Division and Mr. Naseem Ahmed Khan (BS-18), Senior Taxidermist, Zoological Sciences Division. Prof. Dr. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF, was the chief guest at the occasion. The speakers paid rich tributes to the services of the both officers. The chief guest presented gifts and bouquets to the retiring officers. Dr.

Nayyer Iqbal retired from his services as a Director Earth Science Division (BS-20), Pakistan Museum of Natural History on 30th November. He joined PMNH as Research Associate (BS-17) in Earth Sciences Division on 24th

October, 1982 and served the PMNH for 32 years. His contributions for Pakistan Museum of natural History are enormous. He also participated actively in development of the various dioramas/displays in PMNH

Pakistan Scientific & Technological Information Centre (PASTIC)Editor: Mrs. Rahila Khurram

Federal Minister for S&T Visited PASTIC National CentreMr. Zahid Hamid Khan, Federal Minister for Science & Technology v is i ted PASTIC on November 19, 2014. He was accompanied wi th Mr. Kamran Al i Qureshi, Federal Secretary

MoST, Mr. Khalid Siddique, JTA and Prof. Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman, PSF during his visit to PASTIC. Other senior officers of PSF were also present at the occasion.

as well as outside PMNH. He had played an important role in the development of the Rock Garden of PMNH. His retirement has created a vacuum in the Earth Sciences Division that will be difficult to fill. Mr. Naseem Ahmed Khan jo ined the Zoolog ica l Sciences Division, PMNH in 1981 and retired on 9th November, 2014. He carried out taxidermy of hundreds of zoological specimens of all sizes. He played an important role in the development of the dioramas of the Display

Dr. Muhammad Akram Shaikh, Director General, PASTIC welcomed the Federal Minister and took him around the various sections of PASTIC such as L i b r a r y, I T S e c t i o n , R e p r o g r a p h y S e c t i o n ,

Document Supply Section, Technology Information Section and Bibliographic Information Section. He was acquainted with the activities and services of PASTIC during his visit to PASTIC.After the visit of sections a

Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ibupoto, Chairman PSF, presenting bouquets to Dr. Nayyer Iqbal and Mr. Naseem Ahmed Khan respectively.

Federal Minister during his visit to Reprography sectionFederal Minister, Science & Technology in the meeting with

Senior Officers of PASTIC and PSF

PSF NEWSLETTER 12

Pakistan Science FoundationConstitution Avenue, IslamabadPhone: 9201887, Fax: 9202468www.psf.gov.pkE-mail: psfsecy@psf.gov.pk

PASTIC National CentreQ. A. University Campus, Islamabad

Phone: 9248103-04, Fax: 9248113www.pastic.gov.pk

E-mail: director@pastic.gov.pk

Pakistan Museum of Natural HistoryGarden Avenue,

Shakarparian, IslamabadPhone: 9252086, 9252087

www.pmnh.gov.pk

Printed at: PASTIC PressReprographic Unit, PASTIC National Centre, Islamabad

ISO 9001:2000 Certified

Layout: Abdul Rasool, PMNH

Students and Faculty Members ofSindh Agriculture University, Tandojam Visit PASTIC

A group of 40 students along with two faculty members from Sindh Agriculture University (SAU), Tandojam visited PASTIC on November 12, 2014. Mr. Muhammad Aqi l Khan , Addi t iona l Director (STI), delivered

presentation on PASTIC activities and demonstration on on- l ine informat ion services and databases. Mr. Saifullah Azim, Sr. System Analyst also delivered a lecture on Advance Web Searching Techniques.

PASTIC Information Services at Doorstepsof Universities /Institutions:

PASTIC regularly organizes i t s s e r v i c e s s t a l l s a t univers i t ies and R&D institutions to bring its services at the doorsteps of researchers. During this month PASTIC services stalls were arranged at f o l l o w i n g p l a c e s i n Faisalabad and Lahore.Faisalabadi. PASTIC services stall was organized at Faculty of A n i m a l H u s b a n d r y , University of Agriculture, Faisalabad on November 12, 2014 by PASTIC Sub-Centre Faisalabad, This activity was specially organized for celebrating World Science D a y f o r P e a c e a n d D e v e l o p m e n t . 6 3 Researchers, Senior Faculty Members visited the stall and requested for literature search according to their research topics/projects. Later on specific data relevant to all the requests was sent to the researchers through email. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sarwar, Dean, F a c u l t y o f A n i m a l Husbandry along with Senior Faculty Members visited the P A S T I C S t a l l a n d appreciated PASTIC services rendered to researchers.ii. The PASTIC Sub-

Centre Faisalabad organized second services stall at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad on November 13, 2014.iii. The PASTIC Sub-Centre Faisalabad organized third services stall at Faculty of Science, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad on November 27, 2014.LahoreThe PASTIC Sub-Centre Lahore organized two days PASTIC services stall at Un ive r s i ty o f Pun jab , Lahore from November 20-21, 2014 in connection with celebrating World Science Day for Peace and D e v e l o p m e n t . S e v e r a l researchers, students and faculty members viz. Prof. Dr. Amer Ijaz, Chairman, Chemica l Eng inee r ing Depa r tmen t , Ass i s t an t Professor Dr. Shakee l Ahmed, Deputy Director, ORIC (IAGS) Department of Agricultural Sciences visited the PASTIC stall for knowing about the PASTIC Services. They emphasized on the need of arranging such stalls in future for the awareness of the students and faculty members.

meeting was held in the committee room of PASTIC where Dr. Muhammad Akram Shaikh, Director General, PASTIC, gave a brief presentation on various

activities of PASTIC. Federal Minister took keen interest in modernizing the services of PASTIC in view of the importance of the role of information that its plays in

t h e r e s e a r c h a n d development process. He guided and motivated for d e v e l o p m e n t a n d strengthening of information resources of PASTIC in

accordance with the modern needs and improvement of services thereof. He assured his cooperation for all the efforts to be put forth in this regard.

?Dr. Raja Razi-ul-Husnain, Additional Director (A&F) attended a two week course entitled “Country Focus Training Program: Policy Making and Implementation for Science and Technology (Pakistan)” from October 19 to November 1, 2014 at Seoul, Korea under the technical assistance programme of Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). He also gave presentation on 28th November to PSF Officers regarding his training and discussed possible mutual collaboration of PSF with the organizing country.

PASTIC Officer attended Training Course at Korea

Mr. Muhammad Aqil Khan, Additional Director (STI) delivering a presentation on PASTIC Services

?Dr. Muhammad Akram Shaikh, Director General, PASTIC attended National Curriculum Revision Committee Preliminary Meeting on Computer Engineering at HEC Regional Centre, Lahore from November 10-12, 2014.

Meetings/Workshops/Trainings Attended: